The School of Law and Social Sciences
We stand resolute in our commitment to fostering a safe, equal, and inclusive learning environment and campus life. In that pursuit, we have a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of discrimination and unacceptable behaviour in our institution: bullying, harassment, unlawful discrimination or victimisation. In practice, we have implemented a comprehensive set of policies in which all allegations of discrimination: race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, and socioeconomic status, will be investigated, and if appropriate, disciplinary action will be taken.
We also firmly believe that education and awareness are crucial for combating discrimination. So, we have been providing mandatory diversity and inclusion training for all members of our community, so that they are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of a diverse world with sensitivity and empathy.
While we take pride in our accomplishments, we recognise that the journey towards equality and inclusion is still long. We are aware that structural injustices outside our campus inevitably make their way in, particularly in social dynamics, access to resources and support, as well as the very knowledge that is being promoted and exchanged. So, we regularly assess our policies, initiatives, and practices to adapt and evolve in response to the ever-changing social and political landscape, and to identify areas of improvement based on feedback, experience, and research.
Our student-led support groups and organisations serve as vital platforms for feedback, advocacy, solidarity, empowerment, and community-building. We invite you to be part of this transformative journey, which is central to our collective prosperity and academic success.
Meet our EDI Team
Dr Janina Beiser-McGrath
Senior Lecturer in Politics and Quant. Methods, Department of Politics, International Relations and Philosophy
First Generation Students Community Group Lead
Dr Gauri Wagle
Lecturer in Political Theory, Department of Politics, International Relations and Philosophy
Womxn of Colour Student Community Group Lead
Dr Mohammad Kalantari
Senior Lecturer in International Relations, Department of Politics, International Relations and Philosophy
Muslim Students Community Group Lead
Mr Michael Bankole
Lecturer in Politics, Department of Politics, International Relations and Philosophy
Black, African and Caribbean Students Community Group Lead
Useful Contacts
Security
Email: Securityrhul@rhul.ac.uk
Phone: 01784 443 888 or 444 from an Internal Phone
Location: Founder's East, Ground Floor, Next to the Visitor Centre
Health Emergency Services
101: Surrey Police
111: Non Emergency
119: Covid-19 Related
999: Emergency
Student Counselling
Phone: 01784 443 128
Further Information can be found here
Disability and Neurodiversity Services
Phone: 01784 414 621
Email: Disability@rhul.ac.uk
Accessibility
Further Information can be found here
National Bullying Helpline
Further Information can be found here
National Stalking Helpline
Further Information can be found here
Victim Support
Further Information can be found here
Student Communities
Womxn of Colour Community
This group seeks to connect students who identify as Womxn of Colour within the School of Law and Social Sciences at Royal Holloway, University of London. The group has three main objectives: to provide a supportive community and safe space for WoCs to gather, to build a professional network, and to enable academic and career advancement. To this end, members organise networking events, speaker series, and programming in collaboration with other groups on campus. They assist each other with preparing for exams, workshopping CVs, and coordinating professional photos. The group also meets regularly in a supportive capacity so that members can share their ongoing trials and triumphs.
The group is open to any current students of RHUL LSS that identify as womxn of colour. Student leads are voted on every academic year. For the year of 2023-2024, the student leads are Ella Hearn-Zhang and Precious Ojo. The staff lead associated with this group is Dr. Gauri Wagle, Lecturer in Politics at the Department of Politics, International Relations & Philosophy.
LGBTQIA+ Community Group
This group connects students across the School of Law and Social Science who identify as LGBTQIA+. The group has three main objectives: (1) to provide a safe, supportive community for students who are LGBTQIA+, (2) to build a professional network and an understanding of LGBTQIA+ professionalism and leadership, and (3) to enable academic and career advancement. The group meets regularly in a supportive capacity so that members can share their experiences and develop a sense of belonging as a LGBTQIA+ student at RHUL.
The group is open to any current students of RHUL LSS that identify as LGBTQIA+. Student leads are voted on every academic year. For the year 2024-25, Lili Leung from BSc Social Science will be the student lead for this group.
The staff leads associated with this group are Karl Mason, Senior Lecturer in Social Work and Prof. Robert Jago, Professor of Law.
Black, African, and Caribbean Community
This group is dedicated to enhancing the experience of students in the School of Law and Social Sciences from African and Caribbean backgrounds.
Our mission is
1. To foster cultural celebration and community building.
2. Provide academic support, mentorship, and professional development.
3. Nurture well-being.
4. Provide a safe space for conversations on important issues that students might face.
Engaging events, guest speakers, and a supportive environment await in the upcoming academic year!
The staff lead associated with this group is Dr. Michael Bankole, Lecturer in Politics at the Department of Politics, International Relations & Philosophy.
First Generation Community
The group provides guidance, mentoring and community for students in the School of Law and Social Sciences who are in the first generation of university students. First Generation students are those whose parents/primary carers do not have an academic university degree (BA/BSc or higher). The group will cover topics surrounding the hidden curriculum, social norms and interactions, and the opportunities available at university that may not be openly discussed and known. Additionally, the group serves as an open forum for First Generation students to exchange and discuss their experiences studying at the School of Law and Social Sciences and to meet fellow students from a similar background.
The staff lead associated with this group is Dr. Janina Beiser-McGrath, Senior Lecturer in Politics and Quantitative Methods at the Department of Politics, International Relations & Philosophy.
Muslim Student Community
This group is a dedicated community within the School of Law and Social Sciences at Royal Holloway, University of London. It focuses on the experiences and challenges of Muslim students. Its main objectives are:
1. To provide a nurturing space for Muslim students to come together, express their concerns, and support one another throughout their academic journey on academic and non-academic matters.
2. To empower and inspire students through professional development, networking, and mentorship opportunities tailored to their specific needs.
3. To advocate for well-being and holistic care, ensuring every Muslim student feels seen, heard, and valued.
4. To engage in enriching dialogues, promoting both individual and collective growth, and celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions within Muslim communities.
The staff lead associated with this group is Dr. Mohammadreza Kalantari, Senior Lecturer in International Relations of the Middle East at the Department of Politics, International Relations & Philosophy.